Gaza mourns aid worker killed by Israel who helped them see the World Cup | Israel-Palestine conflict News
Israeli Airstrike Claims Lives in Gaza Ahead of World Cup Match
GAZA CITY — A recent Israeli airstrike has resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including Mohammed al-Wahidi, a senior member of Egypt’s main aid organization. The strike occurred while al-Wahidi was traveling in a taxi on the eve of the Egypt versus Argentina World Cup match on Tuesday.
Medics have confirmed that the airstrike took place in the Sabra neighborhood of Gaza City, killing al-Wahidi, 57, and three others, among them two young siblings aged 10 and 8, who were bystanders. A fourth victim, 30-year-old Ahmed Jehad Rajab Doghmosh, was also in the taxi; it remains unclear whether he was the driver or a passenger.
Al-Wahidi served as the director of public relations for the Egyptian Relief Committee in Gaza and was instrumental in providing support following the devastation of the enclave. He was known for clearing rubble, reopening roads, and establishing camps for displaced families.
According to the Egyptian Relief Committee, al-Wahidi was considered a respected community elder, working to resolve conflicts, distribute food, and create social opportunities, including organizing public screenings of World Cup matches. These screenings brought moments of joy to residents of Gaza, many of whom supported the Egyptian team during its tournament run.
“My father worked hard to bring some entertainment to the people and the displaced,” his son, Fawaz, recounted in a phone interview with Reuters. “He tried to bring the matches close to their tents and wrecked shelters.”
Two Egyptian security sources stated that al-Wahidi was responsible for logistics at the Egyptian aid agency, which operates as a supportive arm of the Egyptian government in Palestinian territories. A senior Egyptian official has since raised concerns about al-Wahidi’s death with Israeli authorities, condemning ongoing violence and interference with the committee’s humanitarian efforts.
During al-Wahidi’s funeral on Wednesday, hundreds gathered to pay their respects. His body was wrapped in Palestinian and Egyptian flags before burial, as neighbors and friends visited to offer condolences.
Fawaz described the challenge of his father’s work, noting that al-Wahidi remained dedicated to helping those displaced by conflict.
The airstrike occurred despite an agreed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas on October 10, 2025. Over recent weeks, while ground combat has diminished, Israeli airstrikes have continued, resulting in at least 1,092 Palestinian casualties and over 3,507 injuries, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Since the onset of the conflict in October 2023, more than 73,118 Palestinians have lost their lives, the ministry reports.
